Redken Shades EQ Gloss is a demi-permanent, ammonia-free hair color solution designed to enhance tones, correct color, and add exceptional shine with minimal damage. It’s a favorite among professionals for its versatility and conditioning benefits.
Overview of Redken Shades EQ Gloss
Redken Shades EQ Gloss is a professional, demi-permanent hair color solution offering versatile toning, color correction, and glossing benefits. Formulated with a gentle, ammonia-free acidic base, it combines direct and oxidative dyes for natural-looking results. Ideal for enhancing vibrancy, refreshing color, or achieving glass-like shine, it is suitable for all hair types and can be applied to dry or wet hair. With a processing time of 20 minutes, it delivers conditioned, healthy-looking hair while maintaining color integrity and longevity.
Benefits of Using Redken Shades EQ Gloss
Redken Shades EQ Gloss offers numerous benefits, including enhanced color vibrancy, improved shine, and conditioning properties. Its ammonia-free formula minimizes damage, making it ideal for sensitive hair. The demi-permanent dye provides long-lasting results without lifting the natural pigment, ensuring a gentle yet effective color transformation. It can correct tone imbalances, blend grays, and refresh faded colors while maintaining hair health. The quick 20-minute processing time and easy application make it a convenient option for both professionals and at-home users seeking professional-quality results.
Preparation for Application
Preparation for Redken Shades EQ Gloss involves washing and drying hair thoroughly, wearing protective gloves, and gathering mixing tools. Ensure all steps are followed for optimal results.
Materials Needed for Application
To apply Redken Shades EQ Gloss, gather essential materials: gloves, a mixing bowl, applicator brush, measuring cups, and a plastic cape. Use only Redken Shades EQ Processing Solution as the developer. Ensure all tools are clean and ready for precise mixing and application. Proper preparation ensures a smooth, effective process for achieving desired color results and maintaining hair health. Having everything organized beforehand minimizes errors and guarantees professional-quality outcomes.
Prepping the Hair for Gloss Application
Before applying Redken Shades EQ Gloss, wash and dry hair thoroughly to remove dirt and product buildup. Towel-dry or air-dry until damp but not soaking. This ensures even absorption and optimal results. For best outcomes, avoid using styling products. If needed, apply a clarifying shampoo to open the hair cuticle, enhancing color penetration. Proper preparation is key to achieving vibrant, long-lasting color and shine. Ensure hair is clean and ready for the gloss application to maximize effectiveness and maintain healthy-looking locks.
Mixing Instructions
Mix Redken Shades EQ Gloss in a 1:1 ratio with Shades EQ Processing Solution. Combine thoroughly and apply immediately to dry hair for optimal results and vibrant color.
Understanding the 1:1 Mixing Ratio
The 1:1 mixing ratio for Redken Shades EQ Gloss ensures even color distribution and proper development. Mix equal parts of Shades EQ Gloss with Shades EQ Processing Solution. This ratio is crucial for maintaining the product’s integrity and achieving desired results. It prevents overprocessing and ensures the formula works effectively without damaging the hair. Always mix in a plastic or glass container and apply immediately to dry hair for best outcomes.
Special Mixing Considerations for Different Hair Types
For fine or delicate hair, use the standard 1:1 mixing ratio but process at room temperature to avoid overprocessing. For resistant hair, extend processing time or use heat to ensure better color absorption. When addressing gray hair, increase the amount of neutral base shade in the formula to achieve optimal coverage. For lighter shades, dilute with Crystal Clear to reduce color deposit. Always saturate the hair thoroughly during application to ensure even results and adjust processing times based on hair type and porosity.
Application Process
Section hair into four parts for even application. Apply Redken Shades EQ Gloss to each section using a brush, ensuring thorough saturation. Process for 20 minutes at room temperature or use heat for resistant hair, adjusting time as needed for optimal results.
Sectioning and Saturation Techniques
For optimal results, section hair into four equal parts using vertical slices. Apply Redken Shades EQ Gloss evenly, starting at the roots and working toward the ends. Use a brush to ensure thorough saturation, focusing on key areas needing color correction or enhancement. For resistant hair or gray coverage, apply directly to regrowth zones first, then blend outward. This method ensures uniform color distribution and maximizes the gloss’s conditioning benefits. Proper saturation is key to achieving vibrant, even tones and long-lasting shine.
Timing and Processing
Redken Shades EQ Gloss is processed at room temperature for 20 minutes for optimal results. For resistant hair or gray coverage, extend processing up to 40 minutes. If using heat, apply a cap and set the dryer to a low setting for enhanced penetration. Timing may vary based on hair type and desired color intensity. Ensure thorough rinsing after processing to remove all product residue. Proper timing is crucial for achieving vibrant, even tones and maintaining hair health. Always follow instructions for best outcomes.
Rinsing and Aftercare
Rinse thoroughly with warm water until water runs clear. Shampoo with Redken Color Extend and condition to lock in color. Avoid hot water to preserve vibrancy and shine. Regular touch-ups maintain results.
Proper Rinsing Techniques
After processing, rinse hair thoroughly with warm water until the rinse water runs clear. Use gentle massaging motions to ensure all product is removed. Avoid using hot water, as it can strip color. Instead, opt for warm or cool water to preserve vibrancy. Pat dry with a towel, then condition with a color-protecting conditioner like Redken Color Extend. Proper rinsing ensures the color adheres evenly and maintains its longevity and shine.
Maintaining Color and Shine
To preserve the vibrant results of Redken Shades EQ Gloss, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, such as Redken Color Extend, to protect color-treated hair. Avoid hot water, as it can fade color; instead, rinse with warm or cool water. Regular conditioning treatments and color-depositing products can refresh tones between applications. For styling, apply a heat protectant to prevent color fade from heat tools. Schedule touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to maintain optimal color and shine, ensuring your hair remains healthy and vibrant.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing issues with Redken Shades EQ Gloss involves identifying root causes like improper mixing ratios or application techniques. Adjust formulations and processing times as needed for optimal results.
Addressing Uneven Color Deposit
Uneven color deposit with Redken Shades EQ Gloss can occur due to improper saturation or inconsistent application. To correct this, ensure thorough sectioning and saturation during application. For resistant areas, reapply the gloss, focusing on the problematic sections. Processing times should remain consistent, typically 20 minutes at room temperature. If unevenness persists, consider toning with a neutral shade to balance the color. Always rinse thoroughly and follow with a conditioning treatment to maintain hair health and color vibrancy.
Correcting Over-Toning or Under-Toning
Over-toning can be corrected by applying a neutral shade to balance the color, while under-toning may require reapplying the gloss with a slightly longer processing time. For over-toned areas, mix a small amount of Crystal Clear gloss with the desired neutral tone and apply directly. For under-toned results, increase the processing time by 5-10 minutes or use a higher volume developer. Always rinse thoroughly and condition to maintain hair health. Proper color correction ensures vibrant, even results with Redken Shades EQ Gloss.
Advanced Techniques and Tips
Advanced techniques include using Shades EQ Gloss for color correction and combining it with other Redken products for enhanced vibrancy. Try layering tones for dimension and experimenting with pastel shades for trendy looks. For bold results, apply gloss over pre-lightened hair. Always follow the 1:1 mixing ratio and adjust processing times based on hair type. Regular touch-ups maintain color intensity and shine, ensuring long-lasting results with minimal fade.
Using Shades EQ Gloss for Color Correction
Redken Shades EQ Gloss excels in color correction by neutralizing unwanted tones and enhancing desired shades. For brassy tones, use green-based neutrals; for warmth, try gold or honey shades. Apply gloss to specific sections or entire hair to balance color. Mixing Crystal Clear with toners can lighten deposit for subtle adjustments. Processing times vary from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on hair porosity. This method is ideal for refreshing faded color or adjusting tones without committing to permanent changes, ensuring vibrant, healthy-looking results with minimal damage.
Combining Gloss with Other Redken Products
Redken Shades EQ Gloss can be seamlessly paired with other Redken products for enhanced results. Use it with Redken Color Extend Magnetic Mask to lock in color and moisture post-application. For added smoothness, combine with Redken Pillow Proof primer before styling. To address damage, mix Shades EQ Gloss with Redken Extreme Strength Builder for color correction and repair. These combinations amplify shine, improve texture, and extend color longevity, offering a comprehensive hair care experience tailored to individual needs.